Castle Fraser

Castle Fraser is one of the largest tower houses in Scotland, a Z-plan castle near Sauchen in Aberdeenshire built between 1575 and 1636 by the Fraser family. The National Trust for Scotland now maintains the castle, gardens, and surrounding woodland walks.

The castle's most persistent legend involves a young woman murdered in the Green Room whose body was dragged down the stairs, leaving a bloodstain on the hearthstone that supposedly returns regardless of efforts to scrub or turn the stone. Visitors and staff also report a Green Lady figure on the upper floors and the sound of a piano playing in empty rooms.

The castle opens seasonally with National Trust admission. The grounds and woodland trails are accessible year-round. Interior spaces include tight spiral staircases and small rooms typical of Scottish tower houses. The location is rural with limited public transport.

National Trust for Scotland property open seasonally with standard admission. Grounds and woodland walks accessible year-round. Interior includes tight spiral staircases and small rooms. Rural Aberdeenshire location — a car is recommended. Parking on site. Walled garden and tearoom open during castle hours.